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Best Disney restaurants for every occasion

AJ Wolfe, TheDailyMeal.com
7:59 a.m. EDT April 29, 2013

Best chance to 'eat in a movie' -- Be Our Guest Restaurant: Walt Disney World
Beast's Castle from Beauty and the Beast houses Be Our Guest Restaurant, a new dining addition to the Magic Kingdom. Diners are enchanted by three dining rooms — Belle's library, the West Wing, and the elegant Ballroom — it's a wonder of 'imagineering!' This location is also notable as it's the only spot to order an alcoholic beverage in the Magic Kingdom. (Photo: flickr/insidethemagic)

Best Disney-shaped food -- Crystal Lotus, Hong Kong Disneyland: At the Crystal Lotus in the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, even the dim sum is presented in the form of beloved Disney characters. As an award-winning Chinese restaurant, the atmosphere is elegant and the cuisine is outstanding. (Photo: flickr/planningqueen)

Best bar/lounge -- Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar, Disneyland Resort: Named after the shrunken-head-peddling "Trader Sam" from the beloved Jungle Cruise attraction, this spot offers more than meets the eye. Look for Disney references in Trader Sam's "artifacts" while enjoying the hilarious antics of the bartenders. This spot welcomes kids until the evening, when it becomes 21-and-over. (Photo: flickr/Loren Javier)

Best for meeting princesses -- Cinderella's Royal Table, Walt Disney World: Dining inside the iconic Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom is a royal experience. As you dine, Disney princesses (and sometimes a prince or two!) hobnob with each visiting family. Book dinner in the castle during the fireworks to get a unique view. (Photo: flickr/cw)

Best 'fast food' -- Plaza Inn, Disneyland Resort: The historic Plaza Inn is set on Main Street, U.S.A. within view of Sleeping Beauty's Castle. Featuring Victorian décor and a gorgeous outdoor patio, this is a spot Walt Disney himself liked to frequent during his days in Disneyland. (Photo: flickr/Loren Javier)

Best immersive theming -- Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, Walt Disney World
At Disney's Hollywood Studios, guests are seated at 'tables' that look and feel like 1950s convertible cars (two guests get the front seat, and two guests get the back in most of these cars). After the car hop takes your order, watch the clips on the screen featuring old news reels, silly horror flicks, and classic cartoons. (Photo: flickr/Express Monorail)

Best family experience -- Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, Walt Disney World: Families looking for comfort food and an unforgettable experience for all generations will feel right at home at Pioneer Hall at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort. This is a tradition for many families who keep coming back year after year. (Photo: flickr/Scottwdw)

Best waterside show -- Oceano, Tokyo Disneyland Resort: The restaurant in the Hotel MiraCosta offers a Mediterranean menu with a choice of a buffet or table-service experience in separate dining rooms. It provides a gorgeous atmosphere and a great view of the Mediterranean Harbor, but the main draw for us here is the epic water show "Legend of Mythica," which can be thoroughly enjoyed from the restaurant's exclusive viewing platform! (Photo: flickr/RogerRoger)

Best for special occasions -- Napa Rose, Disneyland: Napa Rose inside the Grand Californian Hotel and Spa offers a seasonal, market-inspired menu. Whether you sit in a private nook or cranny, or book the Chef's Counter, where guests have a close-up view of the open kitchen, your experience will be capped with impeccable service, a top-notch wine list, and unforgettable food. (Photo: flickr/Loren Javier)

Most interesting atmosphere -- Magellan's, Tokyo Disneyland Resort: Magellan's is known for its stunning theme dedicated to explorer and navigator Ferdinand Magellan. While the elegant atmosphere is exceptional, the multi-course meals are also noteworthy. (Photo: flickr/gruntzooki)

Best steakhouse -- Steakhouse 55, Disneyland: Located in the Disneyland Hotel, Steakhouse 55 exudes Hollywood glamor in a refined and memorable setting. Perfectly cooked steaks are the specialty of the house — there are no frills here! — and if you're a meat and potatoes fan, you won't leave disappointed. Ask the expert sommelier to pair a wine with your signature entrée, and don't forget to save room for the towering 24-layer chocolate cake for dessert. (Photo: flickr/Loren Javier)

Best beach and ocean view -- 'AMA'AMA, Disney's Aulani Resort: From the open-air tables at this Hawaiian-cuisine restaurant, the view of the beach and Pacific Ocean are breathtaking. We recommend a dinner reservation at sunset. (Photo: flickr/Mikenan1)

Most exclusive -- Club 33, Disneyland Resort: Club 33 is a members-only club with a years-long waiting list. Located in New Orleans Square of Disneyland, this hidden gem was designed by Walt Disney himself as a tranquil location to hold important meetings and entertain friends. If you want to dine here, you'll need a reservation made by a member. Be sure to ask for a tour when you're there. (Photo: flickr/Loren Javier)

Best seafood -- Flying Fish Café, Walt Disney World: Seafood can be great in so many Disney restaurants, but our pick for most consistently excellent seafood goes to Flying Fish (bonus: the mouthwatering menu includes several incredible options for land lovers as well). Located at Disney's BoardWalk Resort, this restaurant is situated along Crescent Lake and boasts whimsical décor, an open kitchen, and fresh seafood specialties. (Photo: Flickr/Express Monorail)

Best way to eat in a ride attraction -- Blue Lagoon, Disneyland Resort Paris: Swashbucklers (and hungry guests) should make reservations to dine at the "waterside" Blue Lagoon inside Disneyland Paris — the restaurant overlooks the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction. Serving exotic fish and Creole dishes, the moonlit atmosphere, twinkling fireflies, and boats floating by create an enchanting environment. You can get a similar experience at Blue Bayou in Disneyland stateside as well! (Photo: flickr/Loren Javier)

Best character dining experience -- Chef Mickey's, Walt Disney World: While it's not necessarily the best food in any theme park, the opportunity to get autographs from all of the "Fab Five" characters is not to be missed for any new Disney character-hunter. The buffet food and copious desserts will please any young guest, and the grown-ups seem to enjoy it, too. (Photo: Credit: flickr/Wyscan)

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Best immersive theming -- Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, Walt Disney World
At Disney's Hollywood Studios, guests are seated at 'tables' that look and feel like 1950s convertible cars (two guests get the front seat, and two guests get the back in most of these cars). After the car hop takes your order, watch the clips on the screen featuring old news reels, silly horror flicks, and classic cartoons.(Photo: flickr/Express Monorail)

Disney destinations around the globe are known for their family-friendly attractions. But what many visitors don't realize is that Disney restaurants are also extremely popular, and some have even won numerous culinary accolades.

From award-winning chefs and character dining to exotic cuisine and themed dining rooms, restaurants at Walt Disney World in Florida, Disneyland in California, Disneyland Paris, Tokyo Disneyland, Hong Kong Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line ships, and Disney Vacation Club resorts are earning high marks from diners.

Venture away from stereotypical theme park food and you'll find a world of interesting and memorable menus. Visitors to Disney restaurants will encounter incredible seafood, mouthwatering steaks, and delights for all palates, including those that require special diets.

Dining at any Disney location will immerse you in the theme of the restaurant. If you're looking for fun, you can find a down-home hoedown with barbecue eats and kick-up-your-heels entertainment for the entire family to enjoy. Or, if you'd like to dine abroad but don't want to leave the continental United States, a trip to Epcot in Florida will provide numerous restaurants in the World Showcase that offer regional specialties from around the globe; the servers are even from the represented countries, working in Epcot on an international exchange program.

Want to dine with Disney royalty? Book a character meal with Disney princesses. Looking for a romantic ambiance? You'll find it at Disney locations worldwide — including at Remy aboard the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream cruise ships, Victoria & Albert's at the Grand Floridian Resort in Walt Disney World, and Napa Rose nestled in the Grand Californian Resort at Disneyland.

Whether you're looking to impress, relax, or satiate a craving, Disney restaurants offer a multitude of dining experiences. Travel with us as we visit the top Disney restaurants around the world.

Best chance to "eat in a movie:" Be Our Guest Restaurant, Walt Disney World

Beast's Castle from Beauty and the Beast houses Walt Disney World's Be Our Guest Restaurant, a new dining addition to the Magic Kingdom. Diners are enchanted by three dining rooms — Belle's book-filled library, the West Wing featuring an enchanted rose and a painting of the Beast that hides a surprise, and the elegant Ballroom with views of falling snow taken directly from the film — it's a wonder of "imagineering!" This location is also notable as it's the only spot to order an alcoholic beverage in the Magic Kingdom.

Best Disney-shaped food: Crystal Lotus, Hong Kong Disneyland

Disney visitors quickly become accustomed to having their food served in familiar character shapes, such as a smiling Mickey face. But at the Crystal Lotus in the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, even the dim sum is presented in the form of beloved Disney characters. As an award-winning Chinese restaurant, the atmosphere is elegant and the cuisine is outstanding.

Best bar/lounge : Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar, Disneyland Resort

Believe it or not, Disney Parks and Resorts offer hundreds of themed bars and lounges that are kid-friendly and offer menus of food in addition to drinks. But tucked into the Disneyland Hotel, Trader Sam's is undoubtedly our favorite. Named after the shrunken-head-peddling "Trader Sam" from the beloved Jungle Cruise attraction, this spot offers more than meets the eye. Look for Disney references in Trader Sam's "artifacts" while enjoying the hilarious antics of the bartenders. This spot welcomes kids until the evening, when it becomes 21-and-over.

Best for meeting princesses: Cinderella's Royal Table, Walt Disney World

Dining inside the iconic Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom is a royal experience. Guests enter into the two-story stone foyer to meet Cinderella, then proceed to the red-carpeted, winding staircase to the dining room of Cinderella's Royal Table. You're surrounded by finery, including royal flags, huge chandeliers, and stained-glass windows that look out onto your "royal subjects" who are playing their day away in the Kingdom. As you dine, Disney princesses (and sometimes a prince or two!) hobnob with each visiting family. Book dinner in the castle during the fireworks to get a unique view.

Best "fast food:" Plaza Inn, Disneyland Resort

Disneyland's historic Plaza Inn is set on Main Street, U.S.A. within view of Sleeping Beauty's Castle. Featuring Victorian décor and a gorgeous outdoor patio, this is a spot Walt Disney himself liked to frequent during his days in Disneyland. Whether you dine indoors or outside, your quick-service meal should absolutely include the cult favorite fried chicken with all the trimmings — it's among the best we've had. And the desserts are well worth trying. The food and ambiance here are on par with many casual, sit-down restaurant offerings.

For a truly unique experience, head to the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Guests are often amazed as they walk inside a massive dining room imagineered to resemble a vintage drive-in movie at twilight — twinkling stars and all. But it gets better: guests are seated at "tables" that look and feel like 1950s convertible cars (two guests get the front seat, and two guests get the back in most of these cars). After the car hop takes your order, watch the clips on the screen featuring old news reels, silly horror flicks, and classic cartoons.

Best family experience: Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, Walt Disney World

Families looking for comfort food and an unforgettable experience for all generations will feel right at home at Pioneer Hall at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort. Inside, the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue — an historic musical showcase that's been going strong since Disney World first opened its gates — plays to sold-out crowds every night of the year. Fasten your kerchiefs and get ready to dig into all-you-can-eat buckets of fried chicken, barbecue ribs, cornbread, and decadent strawberry shortcake. Mom and Dad also get to indulge in endless beer, wine, and sangria. This is a tradition for many families who keep coming back year after year.

Oceano at Tokyo DisneySea in the Hotel MiraCosta offers a Mediterranean menu with a choice of a buffet or table-service experience in separate dining rooms. It provides a gorgeous atmosphere and a great view of the Mediterranean Harbor, but the main draw for us here is the epic water show "Legend of Mythica," which can be thoroughly enjoyed from the restaurant's exclusive viewing platform!

Best for special occasions: Napa Rose, Disneyland Resort

Napa Rose inside the Grand Californian Hotel and Spa offers a seasonal, market-inspired menu. There are tables tucked away in nooks and crannies for those hoping for a more private, romantic experience; but we also love to book the Chef's Counter, where guests have a close-up view of the open kitchen and may get to sample a few of the dishes-in-progress. Either way, your experience will be capped with impeccable service, a top-notch wine list, and unforgettable food.

Most interesting atmosphere: Magellan's, Tokyo Disneyland Resort

Magellan's at Tokyo DisneySea is known for its stunning theme dedicated to explorer and navigator Ferdinand Magellan. "Props" themed to astronomy and exploration are featured throughout the fortress-like venue, which is centered on an Old World globe in a two-story dining room with balcony seating. While the elegant atmosphere is exceptional, the multi-course meals are also noteworthy.

Best steakhouse: Steakhouse 55, Disneyland Resort

This place is a classic. Located in the Disneyland Hotel, Steakhouse 55 exudes Hollywood glamor in a refined and memorable setting. Perfectly cooked steaks are the specialty of the house — there are no frills here! — and if you're a meat and potatoes fan, you won't leave disappointed. Ask the expert sommelier to pair a wine with your signature entrée, and don't forget to save room for the towering 24-layer chocolate cake for dessert.

Best beach and ocean view: 'AMA'AMA, Disney's Aulani Resort

What's better than sitting on a Hawaiian beach feeling the ocean breeze? Eating there, that's what! Known for Hawaiian cuisine and sweeping ocean views, 'AMA'AMA is located at Disney's Aulani Resort in Hawaii. From the open-air tables, the view of the beach and Pacific Ocean are breathtaking. We recommend a dinner reservation at sunset.

Club 33 is a members-only club with a years-long waiting list. Located in New Orleans Square of Disneyland, this hidden gem was designed by Walt Disney himself as a tranquil location to hold important meetings and entertain friends. If you want to dine here, you'll need a reservation made by a member. But once inside, it's a treasure trove of authentic Disney history. Walt and Lillian Disney shopped for much of the décor themselves, and some of the original "Imagineering" still remains. Be sure to ask for a tour when you're there.

Best seafood: Flying Fish Café, Walt Disney World

This is a tough one to rank, as seafood can be great in so many Disney restaurants. But our pick for most consistently excellent seafood goes to Flying Fish. But what we love most is that the mouthwatering menu includes several incredible options for land lovers as well, so your group will find something for everyone here. Located at Disney's BoardWalk Resort, this restaurant is situated along Crescent Lake and boasts whimsical décor, an open kitchen, and fresh seafood specialties.

Best way to eat in a ride attraction: Blue Lagoon, Disneyland Resort Paris

Swashbucklers (and hungry guests) should make reservations to dine at the "waterside" Blue Lagoon inside Disneyland Paris — the restaurant overlooks the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction. Serving exotic fish and Creole dishes, the moonlit atmosphere, twinkling fireflies, and boats floating by create an enchanting environment. You can get a similar experience at Blue Bayou in Disneyland stateside as well!

Best character dining experience : Chef Mickey's, Walt Disney World

While it's not necessarily the best food in any theme park, the opportunity to get autographs from all of the "Fab Five" characters is not to be missed for any new Disney character-hunter. Chef Mickey's is in the middle of the main concourse in Disney's Contemporary Resort, which means you'll get to watch Monorails whooshing overhead as you sing and dance with your favorite pals — Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto. The buffet food and copious desserts will please any young guest, and the grown-ups seem to enjoy it, too. Once you've done this one, you may prefer several of the other character meals for food and atmosphere, but snagging all five autographs in one meal will save you priceless hours waiting in line in the parks.